The question seemed to be a compliment. Sure, Novak Djokovic's run of dominance in recent times has been impressive. But did the Serb star have to overcome the same calibre of player that Federer faced throughout the mid-2000s, when the Swiss maestro was revered as the world's best player?

"You don't want to disrespect the other players. You don't have to face them, I've got to face them." He then labelled the query a "stupid question".

It's not often Federer has had to defend his credentials. But he went to significant lengths to back his form after the loss to Djokovic, who won three grand slams in 2015 and this weekend will play his sixth Australian Open final.

"I know you guys (in the media) make it a different case - I get that because you think I'm old and all that - but it's no problem for me. It doesn't scare me when I go into a big match against any player who's in their prime right now.

"It's disappointing, but at the same time I'm going deep in slams right now - I'm having great runs.

"Novak right now is a reference for everybody. He's the only guy that has been able to stop me as of late.

"It's okay. I wish I could have played a bit better, and who knows what would have happened, but today Novak was very, very good - there's no doubt about it."

Federer outclassed - strange to see him so agitated & sensitive in the press conference. #AusOpen